Articles
Firle
Finally, the planets once again align and I manage my first flight of the year at Firle in East Sussex.
29 May 2022
Finally, the planets once again align and I manage my first flight of the year at Firle in East Sussex.
29 May 2022
Summer Lightning (Surrey Hills)
One of the must do bike trails in the Surrey Hills. A signed 4.7km trail that is sure to put a smile on your face!
20 May 2022 | 5km | -426ft | singletrack;offroad;
One of the must do bike trails in the Surrey Hills. A signed 4.7km trail that is sure to put a smile on your face!
20 May 2022 | 5km | -426ft | singletrack;offroad;
Henfield to the Devil's Dyke Loop, via Truleigh Hill
Henfield to the Devil's Dyke Loop via Truleigh Hill is a 30km route with 1,800ft of ascent. It follows the Downs Link and the South Downs Way and rewards the rider with both exhilarating views and some adrenaline generating descents!
07 May 2022 | 30km | 1800ft | offroad;loop;
Henfield to the Devil's Dyke Loop via Truleigh Hill is a 30km route with 1,800ft of ascent. It follows the Downs Link and the South Downs Way and rewards the rider with both exhilarating views and some adrenaline generating descents!
07 May 2022 | 30km | 1800ft | offroad;loop;
Southwater to the Devil's Dyke via Truleigh Hill
Southwater to the Devil's Dyke Loop via Truleigh Hill is a 53km route with 2,368ft of ascent. It follows the Downs Link and the South Downs Way and rewards the rider with both exhilarating views and some adrenaline generating descents!
01 May 2022 | 53km | 2368ft | offroad;loop;
Southwater to the Devil's Dyke Loop via Truleigh Hill is a 53km route with 2,368ft of ascent. It follows the Downs Link and the South Downs Way and rewards the rider with both exhilarating views and some adrenaline generating descents!
01 May 2022 | 53km | 2368ft | offroad;loop;
Southwater, Crabtree, Shermanbury, Knepp Loop
A 39km mix of road and bridleways; winding through the West Sussex countryside. In the wetter months the bridleways can become bogged down, so this route is recommended in the dry seasons. There are plenty of places to stop for refreshments and scenery throughout the route.
30 Apr 2022 | 39km | 1600ft | offroad;loop;
A 39km mix of road and bridleways; winding through the West Sussex countryside. In the wetter months the bridleways can become bogged down, so this route is recommended in the dry seasons. There are plenty of places to stop for refreshments and scenery throughout the route.
30 Apr 2022 | 39km | 1600ft | offroad;loop;
Firle - The Rough Bits
Diary entry for my 'Rough' flight at Firle in East Sussex, my first flight of 2021!
28 Aug 2021
Diary entry for my 'Rough' flight at Firle in East Sussex, my first flight of 2021!
28 Aug 2021
Interview Crib Sheet
The Interview Crib Sheet is a useful resource to be used for interviewers of mostly software development positions. This resource may also be useful for candidates that need to swot up on material prior to attending an interview.
11 Aug 2021
The Interview Crib Sheet is a useful resource to be used for interviewers of mostly software development positions. This resource may also be useful for candidates that need to swot up on material prior to attending an interview.
11 Aug 2021
Experiment 3: Bouncy Balls
This experiment aims to explore basic gravity physics, the centring of Dom elements both horizontally and vertically; accessing size of an SVG that can be dynamically sized, and some simple events where a class instance is required in the event handler. Technologies used: JavaScript (ES6+), Web Components, SVG, HTML5.
07 Aug 2021
This experiment aims to explore basic gravity physics, the centring of Dom elements both horizontally and vertically; accessing size of an SVG that can be dynamically sized, and some simple events where a class instance is required in the event handler. Technologies used: JavaScript (ES6+), Web Components, SVG, HTML5.
07 Aug 2021
JS to Html Conversion
This little utility enables you to paste JavaScript code into a text box and convert into raw Html ready for pasting directly into an Html document. Many of the code examples presented throughout this website use this utility.
04 Aug 2021
This little utility enables you to paste JavaScript code into a text box and convert into raw Html ready for pasting directly into an Html document. Many of the code examples presented throughout this website use this utility.
04 Aug 2021
Experiment 2: Collision Detection
In preparation for coding some JavaScript games, there is a need for efficient collision detection. This experiment presents solutions for collision detection for use in future experiments for in-browser gaming. This experiment provides working demonstrations, complete with listings, for various techniques explored in this experiment.
31 Jul 2021
In preparation for coding some JavaScript games, there is a need for efficient collision detection. This experiment presents solutions for collision detection for use in future experiments for in-browser gaming. This experiment provides working demonstrations, complete with listings, for various techniques explored in this experiment.
31 Jul 2021
Experiment 1: Trace Scroller
A quick programming experiment to create a Web Component with horizontal scrolling traces using SVG using JavaScript (ES6). The code has to be performant as it is likely to be used on low end machines.
30 Jul 2021
A quick programming experiment to create a Web Component with horizontal scrolling traces using SVG using JavaScript (ES6). The code has to be performant as it is likely to be used on low end machines.
30 Jul 2021
Programming Introduction
A little bit about myself, how I found may way into programming, a bit about my career and some of the software applications I had developed over the years.
30 Jul 2021
A little bit about myself, how I found may way into programming, a bit about my career and some of the software applications I had developed over the years.
30 Jul 2021
Strapping (Street Mapping)
What started off as an experiment during a local ride during Covid-19 lockdown turned out to be a surprising way to clock-up some miles!
07 Feb 2021
What started off as an experiment during a local ride during Covid-19 lockdown turned out to be a surprising way to clock-up some miles!
07 Feb 2021
Stonham Barns
Temporary hang glider winch site used for a hang gliding competition and as a means of getting some publicity for the sport.
03 Oct 2020
Temporary hang glider winch site used for a hang gliding competition and as a means of getting some publicity for the sport.
03 Oct 2020
The Garden Office
Following completion of the garden, the next phase would be the construction of the garden office, or, 'She Shed' as it has become to be known.
28 Sep 2020
Following completion of the garden, the next phase would be the construction of the garden office, or, 'She Shed' as it has become to be known.
28 Sep 2020
Garden Make-Over
With Covid-19 still on the rampage and holidays cancelled, we've been spending more time in the garden. We'd never been happy with the garden when we moved in, so what better time to give it a much deserved overhaul.
01 Sep 2020
With Covid-19 still on the rampage and holidays cancelled, we've been spending more time in the garden. We'd never been happy with the garden when we moved in, so what better time to give it a much deserved overhaul.
01 Sep 2020
Karabiners
An article discussing karabiners and their use on hang gliders along with some useful tips to ensure the karabiner remains orientated in their strongest position when ground handling the glider.
05 Oct 2019
An article discussing karabiners and their use on hang gliders along with some useful tips to ensure the karabiner remains orientated in their strongest position when ground handling the glider.
05 Oct 2019
Clearing the Cobwebs!
Diary entry for my two flights at Firle in East Sussex after a long period without flying. It was also an opportunity to try a new camera mount and position (although I didn't quite get the angle right!)
07 Sep 2019
Diary entry for my two flights at Firle in East Sussex after a long period without flying. It was also an opportunity to try a new camera mount and position (although I didn't quite get the angle right!)
07 Sep 2019
Plumpton Site Guide
Site guide for Plumpton, the Southern Aerotow Group's primary towing site.
15 Jun 2019
Site guide for Plumpton, the Southern Aerotow Group's primary towing site.
15 Jun 2019
Home To Home
In 1995, after completing my degree, I finally uprooted from my home town of Frome in Somerset (UK) and relocated to the South East, eventually settling in the village of Southwater in West Sussex. In the years that passed, I had contemplated the feasibility of cycling home to home, Southwater to Frome. It’s over 100 miles and by car and often takes over 3 hours...
15 Jun 2019
In 1995, after completing my degree, I finally uprooted from my home town of Frome in Somerset (UK) and relocated to the South East, eventually settling in the village of Southwater in West Sussex. In the years that passed, I had contemplated the feasibility of cycling home to home, Southwater to Frome. It’s over 100 miles and by car and often takes over 3 hours...
15 Jun 2019
Finally Some Air Time!
After over 6 months I finally get some air-time. Not the best of flights.
05 May 2019
After over 6 months I finally get some air-time. Not the best of flights.
05 May 2019
U2 160 Service
In preparation for the 2019 flying season, John Barratt from South Downs Hang Gliding strips my glider down and removes the sail for a thorough inspection after my trip to Lanzarote. John fortunatly spots a mistake I had made when re-installing the outer leading edges after my return from Lanzarote. I had flown the glider a couple of times in the configuration but not detected any issues!
12 Apr 2019
In preparation for the 2019 flying season, John Barratt from South Downs Hang Gliding strips my glider down and removes the sail for a thorough inspection after my trip to Lanzarote. John fortunatly spots a mistake I had made when re-installing the outer leading edges after my return from Lanzarote. I had flown the glider a couple of times in the configuration but not detected any issues!
12 Apr 2019
Shackleford Turkey Burner
The event is organised by www.trailbreak.co.uk and they have 3 route options, Short, Medium and the Full Route with distances of 25km, 43km and 50km respectively. It costs a little more the further you cycle, but at £24 for the Full Route, it wasn't going to break the bank (but probably me), so I entered the Full Route.
06 Jan 2019
The event is organised by www.trailbreak.co.uk and they have 3 route options, Short, Medium and the Full Route with distances of 25km, 43km and 50km respectively. It costs a little more the further you cycle, but at £24 for the Full Route, it wasn't going to break the bank (but probably me), so I entered the Full Route.
06 Jan 2019
A Mini XC From Firle to Bo Peep
An account of my 22 minute flight from Firle to the bottom landing field at Bo Peep.
07 Oct 2018
An account of my 22 minute flight from Firle to the bottom landing field at Bo Peep.
07 Oct 2018
Pre-Flight Checks!
As I checked over the glider and did my pre-flight checks, I found an issue. As I pulled the VG cord, the sheath of the cord separated and exposed all the nylon strands contained within…
05 Sep 2018
As I checked over the glider and did my pre-flight checks, I found an issue. As I pulled the VG cord, the sheath of the cord separated and exposed all the nylon strands contained within…
05 Sep 2018
Packing for Air Transport
In February 2018, I travelled to Lanzarote from England's Gatwick Airport, taking my relatively new Wills Wing U2 160 with me, in doing so; I packed my glider using many of the tips and experiences of others as a reference. Fortunately, my glider survived the trip there and back so I wrote this guide as a reference for others.
15 Feb 2018
In February 2018, I travelled to Lanzarote from England's Gatwick Airport, taking my relatively new Wills Wing U2 160 with me, in doing so; I packed my glider using many of the tips and experiences of others as a reference. Fortunately, my glider survived the trip there and back so I wrote this guide as a reference for others.
15 Feb 2018
Lanzarote 2018
When I learned I was headed to Lanzarote there was only one thing I really wanted to do, fly the Famara cliffs! The moment I had crossed the Valley of Doom and my glider began to climb, I had met my objective and I buzzed with childlike excitement! Even if the weather for the rest of the week did not play ball, I was more than content flying Famara!
12 Feb 2018
When I learned I was headed to Lanzarote there was only one thing I really wanted to do, fly the Famara cliffs! The moment I had crossed the Valley of Doom and my glider began to climb, I had met my objective and I buzzed with childlike excitement! Even if the weather for the rest of the week did not play ball, I was more than content flying Famara!
12 Feb 2018
A Windy Day at Firle
It was still towards top end and I struggled to hold the glider on the ground so nose assist was greatly appreciated (thanks Pete). When the glider settled, I called 'Release', waited for the nose man to clear, then set-off with a hard run and pulled the bar in to build good airspeed before leaving the ground...
29 Oct 2017
It was still towards top end and I struggled to hold the glider on the ground so nose assist was greatly appreciated (thanks Pete). When the glider settled, I called 'Release', waited for the nose man to clear, then set-off with a hard run and pulled the bar in to build good airspeed before leaving the ground...
29 Oct 2017
B****cks!
In my desperate attempt to recover, I pulled the bar in and the stalled wing began to fly and the glider began to level out. That was the moment when I ran out of altitude and the left side of the control frame impacted and dug into the loose soil from the recently ploughed field.
13 Aug 2017
In my desperate attempt to recover, I pulled the bar in and the stalled wing began to fly and the glider began to level out. That was the moment when I ran out of altitude and the left side of the control frame impacted and dug into the loose soil from the recently ploughed field.
13 Aug 2017
An Early Flight
After a couple of beats back and forth along the ridge I had detected the presence of small, but notable thermals. I used these by employing a series of not so efficient s-turns to climb 300ft above the ridge…
01 Jul 2017
After a couple of beats back and forth along the ridge I had detected the presence of small, but notable thermals. I used these by employing a series of not so efficient s-turns to climb 300ft above the ridge…
01 Jul 2017
Hell Yeah!
After a prolonged period without flying my brain reflects in a negative way about why I participate in this sport. Does the risk warrant the pleasure gained from it? My last flight was back in November and I had missed multiple opportunities to fly due to work commitments and the pressure of family life; was I really committed enough?
10 Apr 2017
After a prolonged period without flying my brain reflects in a negative way about why I participate in this sport. Does the risk warrant the pleasure gained from it? My last flight was back in November and I had missed multiple opportunities to fly due to work commitments and the pressure of family life; was I really committed enough?
10 Apr 2017
New Duration Personal Best
The days leading up to the 13th I seriously procrastinated between Firle and the Devil's Dyke as forecasts were a little uncertain and changeable. Like everyone else, I decided to leave it until Sunday morning and by then, the forecast showed a hint of west in the dominant northerly wind. It was decided; Devil's Dyke!
13 Nov 2016
The days leading up to the 13th I seriously procrastinated between Firle and the Devil's Dyke as forecasts were a little uncertain and changeable. Like everyone else, I decided to leave it until Sunday morning and by then, the forecast showed a hint of west in the dominant northerly wind. It was decided; Devil's Dyke!
13 Nov 2016
Gale Hanging at the Dyke
I almost didn't turn up - a result of getting paranoid by comments on the Southern Hang Gliding Club's Telegram service reporting that it would be very windy, gusty and would blow out later…
05 Nov 2016
I almost didn't turn up - a result of getting paranoid by comments on the Southern Hang Gliding Club's Telegram service reporting that it would be very windy, gusty and would blow out later…
05 Nov 2016
Sedgwick Park to Monks Gate
A fun little down hill on one of my local routes.
23 Oct 2016 | 2km | -79ft | offroad;singletrack;
A fun little down hill on one of my local routes.
23 Oct 2016 | 2km | -79ft | offroad;singletrack;
Barry Knows Best
Barry Knows Best is probably one of the most famous single tracks in the Surrey Hills and I confess to it being one of mine too!
23 Oct 2016 | -203ft | offroad;singletrack;
Barry Knows Best is probably one of the most famous single tracks in the Surrey Hills and I confess to it being one of mine too!
23 Oct 2016 | -203ft | offroad;singletrack;
Stern Stalls
Holding a kayak vertical looks pretty cool and is surprisingly a relatively simple move with a bit of practice. It can lead to move advanced moves such as cartwheels, so it's a good starting point. This article discusses the stern-stall.
17 Oct 2016
Holding a kayak vertical looks pretty cool and is surprisingly a relatively simple move with a bit of practice. It can lead to move advanced moves such as cartwheels, so it's a good starting point. This article discusses the stern-stall.
17 Oct 2016
Aerotow Demonstration at Ringmer Gliding Club
Ringmer Gliding Club want more use of their field. They also want some new people to invigorate their club. Perhaps having us there will bring in some new interest.
07 Oct 2016
Ringmer Gliding Club want more use of their field. They also want some new people to invigorate their club. Perhaps having us there will bring in some new interest.
07 Oct 2016
Lift (The Coanda Explanation)
A short article describing how lift is generated using the Coanda explanation.
06 Oct 2016
A short article describing how lift is generated using the Coanda explanation.
06 Oct 2016
The Early Bird Gets the Worm
No worms were hurt, but an early start was required as the forecast had predicted moderate winds early decreasing through the day…
02 Oct 2016
No worms were hurt, but an early start was required as the forecast had predicted moderate winds early decreasing through the day…
02 Oct 2016
A Simple Sled Ride
Disappointed is the best word to summarise the weekend; Saturday was forecast to be an epic but as the week progressed, the wind forecasts were continually revised upwards and when Saturday arrived, it was blown out (although one pilot did brave the skies!)...
18 Sep 2016
Disappointed is the best word to summarise the weekend; Saturday was forecast to be an epic but as the week progressed, the wind forecasts were continually revised upwards and when Saturday arrived, it was blown out (although one pilot did brave the skies!)...
18 Sep 2016
Caburn Conquered
I'd wanted to fly Caburn ever since I'd flown there during my CP training with John Barratt many years earlier. Back then myself and glider, a school Aeros Target 16, had been driven to the top of the hill via the track at the rear...
03 Sep 2016
I'd wanted to fly Caburn ever since I'd flown there during my CP training with John Barratt many years earlier. Back then myself and glider, a school Aeros Target 16, had been driven to the top of the hill via the track at the rear...
03 Sep 2016
Fickle Firle
As the morning progressed various pilots were tempted into the air (mostly the rigids) and at some point, all struggled to stay up and had to scratch around efficiently on the ridge or dart in for a top landing when high enough…
14 May 2016
As the morning progressed various pilots were tempted into the air (mostly the rigids) and at some point, all struggled to stay up and had to scratch around efficiently on the ridge or dart in for a top landing when high enough…
14 May 2016
A Windy Dyke Day
As I waited for a path to launch to clear, I was surprised that no one else had launched or was hinting at doing so. I asked a couple of pilots why, and they all replied; 'It's too cold!'. My suspicions were they were all waiting for someone else to launch first (a suitable wind dummy)! Turns out, that would be me!
24 Apr 2016
As I waited for a path to launch to clear, I was surprised that no one else had launched or was hinting at doing so. I asked a couple of pilots why, and they all replied; 'It's too cold!'. My suspicions were they were all waiting for someone else to launch first (a suitable wind dummy)! Turns out, that would be me!
24 Apr 2016
A Reflection On Why I Didn't Fly
I think it's always important to reflect on decisions made with regards to hang gliding and to reflect on choices. On Sunday, I chose not to fly despite arriving early and the sky looking very inviting…
17 Apr 2016
I think it's always important to reflect on decisions made with regards to hang gliding and to reflect on choices. On Sunday, I chose not to fly despite arriving early and the sky looking very inviting…
17 Apr 2016
A Muddy Landing
I made it to Truleigh, albeit almost entirely at ridge height before I found my first reliable climb which took me to 600ft above take-off…
16 Apr 2016
I made it to Truleigh, albeit almost entirely at ridge height before I found my first reliable climb which took me to 600ft above take-off…
16 Apr 2016
Thermalling Etiquette
A collection of useful information on Thermalling Etiquette gathered from various forums.
31 Mar 2016
A collection of useful information on Thermalling Etiquette gathered from various forums.
31 Mar 2016
Takatoshi Kosaka's report of his XC
Takatoshi Kosaka's writes this great report of his XC from the Devil's Dyke on the 25 March 2016.
25 Mar 2016
Takatoshi Kosaka's writes this great report of his XC from the Devil's Dyke on the 25 March 2016.
25 Mar 2016
First Day of Spring
After my climb I headed off to Firle Beacon - this is normally a good source of lift. Today however, the lift was poor and I arrived at the Beacon at ridge height and found myself stuck in the small bowl below it trying to regain enough height to safely fly back...
20 Mar 2016
After my climb I headed off to Firle Beacon - this is normally a good source of lift. Today however, the lift was poor and I arrived at the Beacon at ridge height and found myself stuck in the small bowl below it trying to regain enough height to safely fly back...
20 Mar 2016
A Trip to the Clouds and Beyond
On my final climb from Firle Beacon, the glider climbed with unbelievable ease - no matter which way I flew the vario continued to squeak its happy chirps. I looked to my left then to my right and realised I had reached the base of the clouds…
15 Mar 2016
On my final climb from Firle Beacon, the glider climbed with unbelievable ease - no matter which way I flew the vario continued to squeak its happy chirps. I looked to my left then to my right and realised I had reached the base of the clouds…
15 Mar 2016
3000 Miles in 2015
In 2015 I set myself a target to cycle by either mountain bike or road, a total distance of 3,000 miles! All rides had to be tracked by Endomondo. This article discusses how I achieved this target despite many challenges along the way!
31 Dec 2015
In 2015 I set myself a target to cycle by either mountain bike or road, a total distance of 3,000 miles! All rides had to be tracked by Endomondo. This article discusses how I achieved this target despite many challenges along the way!
31 Dec 2015
Emergency Landing!
After I had zipped my legs up I wiggled in my harness to get comfortable and tried to raise my head a little. At that point I'm not too sure what exactly happened but I felt a pop and my body slipped downwards out of the harness…
26 Sep 2015
After I had zipped my legs up I wiggled in my harness to get comfortable and tried to raise my head a little. At that point I'm not too sure what exactly happened but I felt a pop and my body slipped downwards out of the harness…
26 Sep 2015
You Don't Fly if You Don't Try
I returned to the ridge and began a slow but predictable descent to the bottom landing field. As I turned onto final I hit some lift and for a moment considered to work it…
27 Jun 2015
I returned to the ridge and began a slow but predictable descent to the bottom landing field. As I turned onto final I hit some lift and for a moment considered to work it…
27 Jun 2015
Aeros Myth 3 Harness
After many years of flying with my original FlyLight harness (my first harness) and with my waistline slowly expanding, I decide it's time for a new harness. Here are my thoughts on the Aeros' Myth 3!
20 Jun 2015
After many years of flying with my original FlyLight harness (my first harness) and with my waistline slowly expanding, I decide it's time for a new harness. Here are my thoughts on the Aeros' Myth 3!
20 Jun 2015
A Short Trip Over the Back
Eventually, I lucked out and found a very lumpy but consistent thermal that I shared with a paraglider. The wind drift over the back was pretty pronounced and as I climbed the Dyke moved further and further away…
25 May 2015
Eventually, I lucked out and found a very lumpy but consistent thermal that I shared with a paraglider. The wind drift over the back was pretty pronounced and as I climbed the Dyke moved further and further away…
25 May 2015
A Low Save (Almost)
After witnessing a couple of lively landings, one of which resulted in a broken tail fin and another almost landing on a bus, I retreated out of the wind to enjoy some hot coffee and pre-packed lunch…
16 May 2015
After witnessing a couple of lively landings, one of which resulted in a broken tail fin and another almost landing on a bus, I retreated out of the wind to enjoy some hot coffee and pre-packed lunch…
16 May 2015
Newhaven - Epic Fail!
Not being very current with my new glider and harness, I had decided not to fly Newhaven. Instead I'd have a look at it with a view of flying it later in the year. I had rightly assumed that people may be flying, but when I arrived, I wasn't quite expecting to see what I did...
10 May 2015
Not being very current with my new glider and harness, I had decided not to fly Newhaven. Instead I'd have a look at it with a view of flying it later in the year. I had rightly assumed that people may be flying, but when I arrived, I wasn't quite expecting to see what I did...
10 May 2015
Sting 3 - Lower Rigging Replacement
All the lower rigging wires replaced on my Sting 3:168.
30 Apr 2015
All the lower rigging wires replaced on my Sting 3:168.
30 Apr 2015
Thermic Bo Peep
By noon the wind was still strong but feeling much more appealing. The level of gusts had also reduced and a launch window had opened. Pilots were beginning to take to the skies and it wasn't long before I was ready and positioned at the front of the hill...
19 Apr 2015
By noon the wind was still strong but feeling much more appealing. The level of gusts had also reduced and a launch window had opened. Pilots were beginning to take to the skies and it wasn't long before I was ready and positioned at the front of the hill...
19 Apr 2015
Wills Wing U2:160
I bit the bullet and purchased my very first 'brand-new' glider, the Wills Wing U2 160 - here's my thoughts about this glider!
06 Feb 2015
I bit the bullet and purchased my very first 'brand-new' glider, the Wills Wing U2 160 - here's my thoughts about this glider!
06 Feb 2015
Aeros Target 16 Novice Hang Glider
My thoughts on the Aeros Target 16 hang glider, Aeros' glider aimed at novice and recreational pilots.
04 Feb 2015
My thoughts on the Aeros Target 16 hang glider, Aeros' glider aimed at novice and recreational pilots.
04 Feb 2015
Hard Going at the Dyke
I arrived at the Dyke for 13:00 and already gliders were in the air. There's wasn't much in the way of cloud but the wind was strong, so I decided to flat rig the U2. ..
24 Jan 2015
I arrived at the Dyke for 13:00 and already gliders were in the air. There's wasn't much in the way of cloud but the wind was strong, so I decided to flat rig the U2. ..
24 Jan 2015
Truleigh and Back - 4 Times!
I ran hard down the hill before I was lifted into the air. I re-checked airspace then turned left and followed the contour of the hill around the bowl and onto the north facing part of the ridge…
18 Jan 2015
I ran hard down the hill before I was lifted into the air. I re-checked airspace then turned left and followed the contour of the hill around the bowl and onto the north facing part of the ridge…
18 Jan 2015
Eddy Hopping
Article describing the Eddy Hopping technique for moving a group down a section of white water.
18 Jan 2015
Article describing the Eddy Hopping technique for moving a group down a section of white water.
18 Jan 2015
Leap Frog
Article describing the Leap Frog technique for moving a group down a section of white water.
18 Jan 2015
Article describing the Leap Frog technique for moving a group down a section of white water.
18 Jan 2015
Eskimo Rescue
Article describing the various techniques for righting a capsized kayak using the eskimo rescue technique. This is often used before the paddler has perfected rolling the kayak.
18 Jan 2015
Article describing the various techniques for righting a capsized kayak using the eskimo rescue technique. This is often used before the paddler has perfected rolling the kayak.
18 Jan 2015
Cartwheels
The cartwheel seems to be one of the first 'modern' play boat moves that most aspire to perfect. A cartwheel looks pretty impressive but in essence there's not a great deal to it - it's a series of sweep strokes with some careful edging and body rotation - it just takes a bit of practice to bring all the elements together and hey presto, you're there!
18 Jan 2015
The cartwheel seems to be one of the first 'modern' play boat moves that most aspire to perfect. A cartwheel looks pretty impressive but in essence there's not a great deal to it - it's a series of sweep strokes with some careful edging and body rotation - it just takes a bit of practice to bring all the elements together and hey presto, you're there!
18 Jan 2015
Wet Feet and a Christened Glider
Almost 3 months without flying and my frustrations with regard to not flying my new U2 160 were to be addressed today!
05 Dec 2014
Almost 3 months without flying and my frustrations with regard to not flying my new U2 160 were to be addressed today!
05 Dec 2014
Windy Firle
I arrived at Firle and as soon as I opened the car door, it was evident that the conditions had exceeded top end…
21 Sep 2014
I arrived at Firle and as soon as I opened the car door, it was evident that the conditions had exceeded top end…
21 Sep 2014
A Perfect Day at Bo Peep
I'd been very apprehensive about flying with my new harness and after studying many YouTube videos, exploring techniques others were using to climb up onto the uprights for landings - I was convinced of the need to change my own technique..
13 Sep 2014
I'd been very apprehensive about flying with my new harness and after studying many YouTube videos, exploring techniques others were using to climb up onto the uprights for landings - I was convinced of the need to change my own technique..
13 Sep 2014
The Wills Wing U2 and Phippsy!
After months of waiting, it was time to collect my new Wills Wing U2. The collection point was Sennen Cove in Cornwall where'd I'd planned to meet Graham Phipps of Cloud9 Hang Gliding, Paragliding and Paramotoring…
23 Aug 2014
After months of waiting, it was time to collect my new Wills Wing U2. The collection point was Sennen Cove in Cornwall where'd I'd planned to meet Graham Phipps of Cloud9 Hang Gliding, Paragliding and Paramotoring…
23 Aug 2014
The Bottom Landing Field is the Place to Be!
I must admit, my confidence in flying has been a little dented since my crash. For this reason, I had decided to revert to my old familiar harness…
14 Jun 2014
I must admit, my confidence in flying has been a little dented since my crash. For this reason, I had decided to revert to my old familiar harness…
14 Jun 2014
Return to Flight
Over two months since my crash and my glider is finally repaired with thanks to both John Barratt from South Downs Hang Gliding, and Steve Elkins from Avian…
08 Jun 2014
Over two months since my crash and my glider is finally repaired with thanks to both John Barratt from South Downs Hang Gliding, and Steve Elkins from Avian…
08 Jun 2014
Still Grounded - But Not for Much Longer!
Almost two months on and I'm still grounded. Due to the economic downturn in the European Union, the strength of the Australian Dollar compared to the UK pound is making AirBorne spare parts prohibitively expensive and in turn, problematic repairing my AirBorne Sting 3...
17 May 2014
Almost two months on and I'm still grounded. Due to the economic downturn in the European Union, the strength of the Australian Dollar compared to the UK pound is making AirBorne spare parts prohibitively expensive and in turn, problematic repairing my AirBorne Sting 3...
17 May 2014
My Hang Gliding Crash!
In retrospective, I should have listened to my inner voice and opted to fly another day but I feel fortunate enough that I was able to walk away from this one; even if my glider didn't…
23 Mar 2014
In retrospective, I should have listened to my inner voice and opted to fly another day but I feel fortunate enough that I was able to walk away from this one; even if my glider didn't…
23 Mar 2014
An Ugly Landing!
Out in front I spotted black birds all enjoying a thermal so advanced in their direction. As I bullied my way through they all dispersed in every conceivable direction and I was rewarded with a few beeps from my vario…
15 Mar 2014
Out in front I spotted black birds all enjoying a thermal so advanced in their direction. As I bullied my way through they all dispersed in every conceivable direction and I was rewarded with a few beeps from my vario…
15 Mar 2014
The Myth Debut
As I ran down the hill the glider lifted above me, much more than I was used to. For a moment I feared that I hadn't attached my leg loops but then I felt a reassuring grip as the leg straps went taught…
30 Nov 2013
As I ran down the hill the glider lifted above me, much more than I was used to. For a moment I feared that I hadn't attached my leg loops but then I felt a reassuring grip as the leg straps went taught…
30 Nov 2013
Soaring in the Rain
As I drove down the A23, I saw nimbostratus clouds reaching towards the top of Truleigh Hill and a gold band of light sandwiched in between. ..
24 Nov 2013
As I drove down the A23, I saw nimbostratus clouds reaching towards the top of Truleigh Hill and a gold band of light sandwiched in between. ..
24 Nov 2013
November Northerlies
The air wasn't particularly buoyant but there were November thermals; small awkward punchy ones that occasionally kicked the glider around if you caught the edge of one, but if you persevered with them, they rewarded you with 300-400 foot height gains…
23 Nov 2013
The air wasn't particularly buoyant but there were November thermals; small awkward punchy ones that occasionally kicked the glider around if you caught the edge of one, but if you persevered with them, they rewarded you with 300-400 foot height gains…
23 Nov 2013
The Missing Sense and a Close Shave!
It was an incredible sight when I arrived at the Dyke and saw so many hang gliders - I believe there were 27 on the hill! Some rigged, some were being rigged but no one had yet taken to the air as the wind was top end and blowed from a north westerly direction. It was however, forecast to drop off later...
11 Nov 2013
It was an incredible sight when I arrived at the Dyke and saw so many hang gliders - I believe there were 27 on the hill! Some rigged, some were being rigged but no one had yet taken to the air as the wind was top end and blowed from a north westerly direction. It was however, forecast to drop off later...
11 Nov 2013
The Accident
I looked down with horror as the dust settled and revealed a motionless pilot pinned under the wreck of the glider. It suddenly dawned on me that this was serious and there was no-one in the immediate vicinity to get to him…
29 Sep 2013
I looked down with horror as the dust settled and revealed a motionless pilot pinned under the wreck of the glider. It suddenly dawned on me that this was serious and there was no-one in the immediate vicinity to get to him…
29 Sep 2013
An Evening at Swanborough
As I launched for the second time, the air certainly felt more buoyant and I was soon established high above those chatting on top of the hill…
27 Sep 2013
As I launched for the second time, the air certainly felt more buoyant and I was soon established high above those chatting on top of the hill…
27 Sep 2013
A Sunset Delight
As the sun began to set I spotted a kestrel and decided to follow it around the sky. Needless to say, this little nimble sky god flew circles around me but I enjoyed the moment…
10 Sep 2013
As the sun began to set I spotted a kestrel and decided to follow it around the sky. Needless to say, this little nimble sky god flew circles around me but I enjoyed the moment…
10 Sep 2013
Something is Leaking!
The flexies on the other hand, were pretty much glued to the ridge with the occasional escape attempts being made…
31 Aug 2013
The flexies on the other hand, were pretty much glued to the ridge with the occasional escape attempts being made…
31 Aug 2013
White-water Rafting at the Lee Valley White-water Centre
I share my Christmas present with Daniel S. and we both go off to explore rafting at the Lee Valley White-water Centre
07 Jul 2013
I share my Christmas present with Daniel S. and we both go off to explore rafting at the Lee Valley White-water Centre
07 Jul 2013
A Prolonged Sled Ride
As I returned to the launch, I started to low. To my surprise, although unable to climb, I was able to soar back and forth along the tree line that bordered the bottom landing field, much to the annoyance of a couple that appeared to be making out in the corner of the field directly beneath me
01 Jun 2013
As I returned to the launch, I started to low. To my surprise, although unable to climb, I was able to soar back and forth along the tree line that bordered the bottom landing field, much to the annoyance of a couple that appeared to be making out in the corner of the field directly beneath me
01 Jun 2013
Truleigh and Traffic
Eventually my paragliding pursuers caught up with me, so I decided to leave them to enjoy Truleigh Hill to themselves and set off back along the ridge…
31 May 2013
Eventually my paragliding pursuers caught up with me, so I decided to leave them to enjoy Truleigh Hill to themselves and set off back along the ridge…
31 May 2013
